Officials announce $6.4B Philly airport expansion

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — After a long dispute, officials say they will move forward with a $6.4 billion plan to expand Philadelphia International Airport.At a news conference Monday, officials say they will add one new runway and enlarge two others.Plans also call for an automated people mover and a new ground transportation center within the next 15 years.The $6.4 billion project is designed to make the airport more competitive by reducing delays and adding capacity and services.The airport is one of the nation's busiest. It served more than 30 million passengers last year and accommodated more than 400,000 takeoffs and landings.The agreement includes annual payments to neighboring Tinicum Township, but eliminates a proposal to acquire 72 township homes and displace about 300 residents.